2. amps-preamps
  3. 173002-144705

Selling off Tubes for Solid State, A Cooler Love Story?

I've always sought out Primaluna gear as my end all be all gear. I started with an integrated, then went to separates and have been very, very happy. What has given me such good sound, is also causing the room temperature to be somewhat annoying. Being in a little shoe box room of 10x15, I've had to result to opening a window, which is becoming tiresome. 

The heat from just the KT88's is causing me to considering going solid state, which will be in preparation for the Summer in my tiny upstairs room. I'd like to possibly get a second amp for the summer months, but am not sure where to start with solid state amps. Do I pick up a BHK? Do I go all in on a used Ypsilon or Dartzeel? What did you look for in a solid state amp and where should I look? I BHK I could test drive at home, but a used Ypsilon I wouldn't able able to try and would just have to pull the trigger. Any advice or guidance is appreciated. 

128x128j-wall

Showing 1 response by testrun

testrun
218 posts
 

I followed the same Primaluna path and ended up with AGD Audions monos.  You can demo for 30 days.  I run them through a Rouge RP-7 so still have "some" tube sound / rolling capability.

Another advantage of the AGD's is weight.  Getting older it was nice to reduce the heat in the summer and the weight if / when moving.  

I know class "D" is controversial in some camps but I'm pretty happy.  I know the Audion design is like when Porsche went from air cooled to watered cooled but I believe these will be collectable over time.  i.e. - using KT-88 to encase amp section.  

They really sound great.  Maybe not class "A" or full tube but I can't say I miss anything.  Happy class D owner.

 

 

 

 

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